Head Trainer/Owner- Stevie McCarron Wigley
Stevie grew up in California as the daughter of famous Hall of Fame jockey, Chris McCarron. It was not uncommon for Stevie and her sisters to be at the race tracks every weekend routing on her dad. Her favorite part was going to the backside to visit the horses. Her dad Chris, quickly realized her love for the horses and encouraged her to get a pony. That was a safer path than that of a jockey! :)
She started showing seriously in the pony hunters from age 8 to 14 and then moved to horses. She then showed in the Junior Jumpers and Equitation her last few years as a junior and competed at the finals in both equitation and on the Junior Jumper Zone 10 team in Harrisburg, Washington and Madison Square Garden. Stevie placed 8th in the Maclay finals in 1997 and won the silver on the Zone 10 team as well at Harrisburg.
In 1998, Stevie continued with her trainer Karen Healey and started working professionally for her in the industry. Since starting her professional career, she has worked for several top barns including Butch, Lu and Guy Thomas of Willow Tree Farm, Barbara Ellison of Wild Turkey Farm, Candice King, and lastly Anne Kursisnki.
In 2005, Stevie decided to move to Kentucky and start her own business! Since then she has been establishing and growing her business more and more each year. Cloud Nine is focused mostly on AA rated shows throughout the country and developing riders of all ages as well as training horses from green hunters and ponies to the Grand Prix jumper level. The program is very focused on creating and striving for goals all while enjoying the process as well as the horses.
OUR INCREDIBLE CREW
Our program is powered by a dedicated, close-knit team consisting of one assistant trainer and four full-time grooms. As a true full-service farm, our grooms are responsible for all aspects of horse care and play a vital role in the day-to-day management of the farm.
Each horse receives individualized attention through consistent routines, thoughtful care, and daily oversight. Our team takes pride in knowing every horse, anticipating their needs, and maintaining a calm, well-run enviroment where horses can thrive. Their dedication allows up to prioritize quality over quantity and always put the horses first.
“Have been riding and boarding at Cloud Nine for 9 years, love the care given to my horse and Stevie is by far the best instructor I have ever ridden with! Friendly and knowledgeable staff give me peace of mind about the welfare of my horse. All the other clients are great - there’s a real feeling of family at Cloud Nine!”
“It’s difficult to find words that express what an awesome job that Stevie and crew do at this barn. Professionalism and fun at its finest. We love this place.”